Difference Between Load Bearing Structures and Framed Structures

The superstructure of a building is that part of the structure that is above the ground level. Based on the load transfer and structural type of the superstructure, they are classified into two: load-bearing structure and framed structure. 

Load Bearing Structures and Framed Structures - Types of Superstructures

Load-Bearing Structure

A load-bearing structure transfers the loads through the walls, vertically downwards to the foundation. The loads from the roofs, walls of the superstructure are transferred to the walls. Walls take these loads along with their own self-weight downwards.

The walls constructed in a load-bearing structure will have higher strength and thickness. When the thickness increases, the room size decreases.

Load-bearing structures are constructed for buildings with small room sizes. These types can be used to construct buildings up to 2 floors economically. 

Read More On Load-Bearing Structure

Framed Structure

Framed structure is a structure that uses beams, columns, and slabs to form a frame system to resist and transfer the gravity and other lateral loads safely to the foundation. The gaps formed in the framed system are filled using the walls. The walls are subjected to their own self-weight. It is not involved in the load transfer mechanism. 

Framed structure is used when the number of stories in a building is more and requires a large floor area free of walls.

Difference Between Load-Bearing Structure and Framed Structure

Load-Bearing Structure	Framed Structure
Loads are safely transferred to the foundation through the walls.	Loads are safely transferred to the foundation through beams, columns, and slabs.
The walls in the load-bearing structure are made thick to carry loads.	The walls in a framed structure do not take loads and hence are constructed with reduced thickness.
As the wall thickness is high, the floor areas are reduced.	As the wall thickness is less, hence more floor area is available.
Suitable for three stories	Suitable for any number of stories
Slow construction and time consuming	Speed of construction is high
After construction, the position of walls cannot be altered.	The position of walls can be changed as necessary.
These are not earthquake-resistant	High resistance to earthquake.
Construction cost is less	Construction cost is high

Read More On: Different Grades of Solid Bricks - ASTM Standard